See then that you walk circumspectly, not as fools but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Therefore do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord…
Ephesians 5:15-19
Here are six pointers for walking (living) with the Lord in 2024. Though none are new, they are worth reviewing.
Walk (live) in wisdom. Jesus is the wisdom of God (1 Corinthians 1:24), so let us walk closely with Jesus. And when we lack wisdom in a particular area, let us remember to “ask God” (James 1:5). Just be sure that whatever “impressions” and or “counsel” you receive that may be from the Lord are square with His Word. Too many follow such impressions and counsel assuming it is from the Lord is unbiblical, and therefore not of the Lord!
Know the Lord’s will. The clearest statement in the New Testament about God’s will is found in 1 Thessalonians 4:3. “This is the will of God, your sanctification” (continued growth in holiness). And since we must do God’s will when we know it, let us renew our commitment to holiness above all else.
Be circumspect with anything that alters our minds. If you have liberty to consume alcohol, prudence demands restraint because while drinking alcohol is not sinful, drunkenness most certainly is sinful! And I would presume that we all know that any drug use to alter our minds is also sinful—even though the godless government has made it legal.
Be filled with the Holy Spirit. Every believer is indwelt by the Holy Spirit of God. Sadly, we do not always follow His leading. Let us be reminded that He is in is, and be intentional about following His lead in the strength of His power.
Encourage each other. Since we live in a world filled with negative and discouraging news, let us look for ways to speak words of encouragement whenever possible. In so doing, we will help others, as well as ourselves, be a bit more able to do number 5.
Praise the Lord. Praising God is the opposite of complaining, dissatisfaction, and covetousness. That cannot help but be good for all of us. Oh, and by the way, were we not created to praise God?
May God bless us and our church in 2024!